Phil Jackson: Lakers not as tuned in as normal

Phil Jackson gave his players an assignment Saturday -- watch the NBA playoffs. Sit down in front of the TV and view as many playoff games as possible.

This wasn't just an exercise in remote control dexterity. The Lakers coach wanted the players to see close, competitive games that could motivate them before they open the NBA playoffs Sunday against the New Orleans Hornets at Staples Center.

Jackson was less-than-thrilled with the Lakers' attitude and focus Saturday. When asked how ready were his players to take on the No. 8 Hornets, Jackson said "So-so."

"I thought we lacked a little focus today and weren't as tuned in as we normally could be," Jackson said, adding that Sunday's early game disrupts their routine. "Still... I would like to see a little more focus."

Jackson said he hoped the players would re-focus by watching what happens to the other playoff teams, "seeing how easy it is to step back."

The Lakers were practicing and therefore missed Chicago's desperate come-from-behind victory against Indiana in Game 1 of their series after being down by 10 points late in the game. They also missed the start of Miami's 97-89 victory against Philadelphia, in which the Heat trailed by as many as 11 points in the first quarter before settling in for an eight-point victory.

"There's always the concern that you can get complacent, but we're trying to emphasize to the players that there is no reason to let up and not think that this team can give us a fight tomorrow," Jackson said.

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